Allowing Undocumented Immigrants to Obtain Licenses

“You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” –Deuteronomy 10:19

“… I was a stranger and you welcomed me” – Matthew 25:35b

“Those who were already firmly established in their homes and firmly rooted in faith show love for those who migrated to them …" - Qur'an 59:9

“Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity. They are children, women, and men who leave or are forced to leave their homes for various reasons, who share a legitimate desire for knowing and having, but above all for being more.” – Pope Francis, Message for the 2014 World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Facts to Consider

Safety Impact for All Rhode Islanders

Licensing all drivers helps increase traffic safety for everyone, as unlicensed drivers, nation-wide, are five times likelier to be involved in a fatal crash than licensed drivers, based on data provided by AAA Foundation.[1] Undocumented Rhode Islanders, like all other drivers, would need to pass a driving test to get a license.

Cost Benefits for All Rhode Islanders

In addition, there is a consumer-price benefit for all drivers, as well. Fewer unlicensed drivers pushes car insurance costs down for all RI drivers. (Consider: Testimony provided to Connecticut lawmakers considering a similar proposal estimated licensing undocumented drivers would reduce Connecticut insurance premiums by $20 million per year.[2])